On Monday 16 March the Visa Section at the British Consulate-General, Hong Kong became a Visa Application Centre (VAC). All United Kingdom visa applications submitted at our VAC are now processed by the regional visa centre at the British Embassy in Manila, which is working to the UK standard visa processing times. Please note the following:

• Applications can only be made up to 3 months in advance of travel.
• We do not accept payment in cash.
• You must make an online application and appointment.  If you do not, we will not be able to accept your application.
• You will need to provide originals of all of your supporting documents and a photocopy of any document that you wish to have returned to you.  If you do not produce copies, the original will not be returned to you. Note that online bank statements must have the bank’s chop for them to be considered original.
• There must be one unused full page (front and back) for the visa vignette.
• You will need to leave your passport with us for the duration of your application* and we advise you not to book flights or confirm travel plans until you receive your visa.
  

* Applicants who are resident in Macao and who are unable to travel between Hong Kong and Macao without their passport should read the further guidance on Services for Macao residents page.  

Do I have to make an online application?

Yes. We do not accept ‘paper’ applications and will not be able to accept your application if you have not made an online application and appointment before you come to our visa section. Please go to visa4UK to make your application.

Do I have to come to the VAC in person?

All applicants, with limited exceptions, must come to the VAC in person. This is because we will take an electronic fingerprint scan and digital photograph. Some applicants do not need to attend in person, including children under 5 years old and those applying for Commonwealth and UK Overseas Territory visas.

How can I find out UK immigration requirements?

Please go to the UK Border Agency International Group website where you will find a full set of guidance notes and a wide range of information about the UK’s visa requirements and services.

What documents do I need to bring with my application?

Please go to Document checklists page to read and download a document checklist for the type of application you want to make.

Please note that if you do not provide the documents in the format and order requested, it may delay the processing of your application. We strongly advise you to read the checklist carefully and to prepare your application as requested before you come to our Visa Application Centre.

What will happen if I don’t provide the documents requested?

If your application is incomplete or you do not submit all requested documents, it is possible that your application may be refused. It is your responsibility to read the relevant guidance, prepare your application properly and supply all required documents.

What kind of photograph should I bring?

Please provide one recent photograph (not more than 6 months old) of yourself. The photograph should be:

1. In colour;
2. Taken against a light background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background (Please avoid white clothing if possible);
3. Clear and of good quality, and not framed or backed;
4. Printed on normal photographic paper;
5. Unmounted - 45 mm x 35 mm in size;
6. Full face and without sunglasses, hat or other head covering unless the applicant wears such items because of cultural or religious reasons.

Note: photographs that do not conform to these standards will be rejected and may delay your application.

How can I pay the application fee?

We do not accept payment in cash. We prefer payment by EPS, MasterCard or Visa, but if you are not able to pay with one of these cards you can pay using a Cashier's Order.

How can I pay using a Cashier’s Order?

Go to any registered Hong Kong bank and request a Cashier's Order made payable to: "British Consulate-General Hong Kong".

If you are not sure what the fee will be, please check the visa fee on this website.

What is the fee for a domestic helper?

If you are applying for a visa for your domestic helper to accompany you to the UK, the fee is not the same as for a visitor. The fee is listed under Permit-Free Employment, overseas domestic worker - private household.

How long will it take to get a decision on my application?

Your documents and passport will be forwarded by commercial courier to the British Embassy in Manila where the application will be processed and a decision taken by an Entry Clearance Officer.

For applications made since 16th March 2009, we aim to:

• complete 90% of non-settlement applications in not more than 15 working days, 98% in not more than 30 working days and 100% in not more than 60 working days;
• complete 95% of applications for settlement visas in not more than 60 working days and 100% in not more than 120 working days.
  

Will you interview me?

We will make most decisions without an interview. But if we need to interview you this will take place at the Visa Application Centre in Hong Kong and we will contact you to arrange a date and time.